This creamy mashed potato recipe is a game-changer for weeknight dinners and holiday meals. And to save a LOT of time, this is specifically my Instant Pot mashed potatoes recipe.
Using Yukon Golds or Russet potatoes, you can achieve fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes in a fraction of the time compared to traditional stove-top methods. The addition of sour cream, cream cheese, or Greek yogurt enhances the flavor, making it the perfect way to elevate your main course.
The Instant Pot method simplifies the cooking process with high-pressure cooking and quick release features. You can easily customize your mashed potatoes with fresh herbs or garlic for added flavor.
This recipe is ideal for using leftover potatoes or creating a delicious side dish for any occasion. And for you garlic lovers, below the main recipe, I’ve included a roasted garlic version too.
Creating Creamy Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
Crafting creamy Instant Pot mashed potatoes is a straightforward process that transforms simple ingredients into a delightful side dish. Using Yukon Golds (but Russet potatoes work too), you can achieve a fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with any main course.
The pressure cooker method simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy the buttery flavor of mashed potatoes in a fraction of the time compared to traditional stove top methods. With just a few simple steps, you can create the best mashed potatoes that are sure to impress.
Ingredients for Success
To make these creamy mashed potatoes, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Start with about two pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks. This type of potato is known for its buttery flavor and creamy texture.
You’ll also require a cup of chicken broth or water to ensure the potatoes cook evenly in the Instant Pot.
Adding warm milk, heavy cream, sour cream, or cream cheese enhances the creaminess, making these mashed potatoes irresistible. Don’t forget to season with enough salt and black pepper for the perfect flavor.
The Instant Pot Cooking Process
Begin by placing the potato chunks in the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Pour in the cup of chicken broth or water, ensuring there is enough liquid to prevent burning during the pressure cooking process.
Close the lid and set the steam release handle to sealing. Select the manual or pressure cook setting and set the timer for ten minutes. This high-pressure cooking method guarantees fluffy and creamy mashed potatoes.
Quick Release and Mashing
Once the cook time is complete, perform a quick pressure release by carefully turning the steam release handle to venting. This step allows you to open the lid safely and access the perfectly cooked potatoes.
Drain any excess liquid and use a potato masher, hand mixer, or electric mixer to mash the potatoes until they reach a smooth and creamy consistency. For fluffier mashed potatoes, consider using a potato ricer for an even finer texture.
Enhancing Flavor and Serving
To elevate the flavor of your mashed potatoes, stir in butter, warm milk, and your choice of sour cream or cream cheese. For an extra kick, mix in minced garlic or garlic powder. This combination creates the ultimate creamy Instant Pot mashed potatoes.
Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh chives or herbs for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm alongside a succulent roast chicken for a comforting family meal.
Storage Tips for Leftover Mashed Potatoes
If you happen to have leftover mashed potatoes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated easily in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk to restore their creamy texture.
These Instant Pot mashed potatoes are not only perfect for weeknight dinners but also make an excellent side dish for holiday meals. With the ease of the Instant Pot method, you can enjoy delicious mashed potatoes without spending a long time in the kitchen.
Easy Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
This recipe yields creamy mashed potatoes using the Instant Pot appliance, which allows you to cook potatoes quickly and efficiently.
The entire process takes about 30 minutes, including prep and cook time, and serves 4-6 people. You can use a variety of potatoes, like Yukon Gold, Russet, or red potatoes, to achieve the best results.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
- 1 cup of chicken broth or water
- 1/2 cup of warm milk or whole milk
- 1/4 cup of heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons of butter or vegan butter
- 1/2 cup of sour cream or cream cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 cloves of garlic, minced or garlic powder
- Fresh chives or herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes: Peel and cut the potatoes into large chunks. Place them in the inner pot of the Instant Pot.
- Add Liquid: Pour in the cup of chicken broth or water, ensuring there is enough liquid to prevent burning.
- Pressure Cook: Close the lid and set the steam release handle to sealing. Select the manual or pressure cook setting and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Quick Release: Once the cook time is complete, perform a quick pressure release by carefully turning the steam release handle to venting.
- Mash the Potatoes: Open the lid and drain any excess liquid. Use a potato masher, hand mixer, or electric mixer to mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
- Add Creaminess: Stir in the butter, warm milk, sour cream, and season with salt and black pepper. For extra flavor, mix in minced garlic or garlic powder.
- Serve: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl, garnish with fresh chives or herbs, and enjoy warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
Instant Pot Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
- 1 cup of chicken broth or water
- 1/2 cup of warm milk or whole milk
- 1/4 cup of heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons of butter or vegan butter
- 1/2 cup of sour cream or cream cheese
- 1 head of garlic (for roasting)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh chives or herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Roast the Garlic: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off a whole head of garlic to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 35-40 minutes until soft and golden. Let cool, then squeeze out the roasted garlic cloves and set aside.
- Prep the Potatoes: Peel and cut the potatoes into large chunks. Place them in the inner pot of the Instant Pot.
- Add Liquid: Pour in the cup of chicken broth or water, ensuring there is enough liquid to prevent burning.
- Pressure Cook: Close the lid and set the steam release handle to sealing. Select the manual or pressure cook setting and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Quick Release: Once the cook time is complete, perform a quick pressure release by carefully turning the steam release handle to venting.
- Mash the Potatoes: Open the lid and drain any excess liquid. Use a potato masher, hand mixer, or electric mixer to mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
- Add Creaminess and Roasted Garlic: Stir in the butter, warm milk, sour cream, and roasted garlic cloves. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl, garnish with fresh chives or herbs, and enjoy warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (includes garlic roasting prep)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (plus 40 minutes to roast garlic)
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4–6 servings
- Calories: 270kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
Check Out All My Holiday Recipes
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
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Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
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Simple Maple Glazed Ham
Classic Pumpkin Pie
Thanksgiving Cheese and Charcuterie Board
Green Bean Casserole (3 optional variations)
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe (w/ Optional Marshmallow Version)
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